Will be going to SW Colo for the first time at end of Dec. Super exited. Will spend 4 days in Telluride first. Not sure if I should spend the rest at Wolf Creek or split it between Durango and Wolf Creek.

Is Durango/Purgatory worth it? Does Purgatory offer something different than the other 2? We have moderate to experts in our group of 4.

Is the town of Durango decent for hanging out for an evening or two? Otherwise, might just spend more time in Wolf Creek because people say that mountain is better. I guess we'll stay on the Pagosa Springs side side that's on the way and there are a few more eating options. But heard South Fork side is a safer drive in the snow.

I'd stop at Silverton and never leave. But, that type of riding is probably not your gig.

Purgatory (Durango Mountain) can be pretty nice. It is a real mountain and has some of the best named runs of any mountain anywhere. The fall lines are a little weird though and it doesn't get nearly the amounts of snow that Wolf Creek or Silverton do. The big advantage is that you can stay in Durango, which is a pretty sweet town. Better restaurants and bars by far. Plus there is a bit of a scene with the college right there. Not an over bearing college town though.

If you can wait to make your decision I'd base going there on conditions. If they are getting the goods then go for it, if not, Wolf Creek is going to be better. Pagosa Springs is definitely the nicer place to stay, more options for when you are off the hill. The only problem is that if the pass closes, it closes on that side. South Fork side rarely closes until after the ski area. So be warned.

Ok. Will definitely check out Purgatory/Durango. Some quick questions about the drive through these areas:

1. To initially get to Telluride from I-40 ... what roads should I take. It looks like there is split from Bloomfield. Google maps says go west and take 140 through Kline. Or should I go due north up through Durango and 550. Would prefer the faster and easier route. I assume 550 is more scenic, but we'll be taking that after Telluride to get to Puragtory.

2. What's the best way to stay on top of road conditions from Pagosa Springs to Wolf Creek? Any websites, radio stations, etc?

550 would take you over Red Mountain Pass. Which is beautiful, but it is about the most gnarly pass that is open in winter in the lower 48. Therefore it does close and can be a hazardous drive. The 300ft drop offs with no guard rail will reenforce that as you drive into Ouray. Since you are going to have to drive over that pass anyway to get to Durango, I'd just save it for when you are leaving Telluride.

As for getting to Wolf Creek from Pagosa. Even if you don't check the road conditions, if the pass is closed they'll let you know. You won't get to the first switch back. The only thing you could lose is a little sleep.